I am trained in evidence-based counseling techniques.  These methods have been tested upon thousands of people, and they have been found to be effective.  Some older methods have been found to have no beneficial effect.  Other techniques have been updated and refined.  A good counselor chooses which method to use for each client, and for each situation.

     For example, teaching couples communication skills and problem resolution skills never decreased the number of divorces.  When couples completed that training, they were just as likely to split up as those who received no training.  So psychologists found other ways that worked better, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).  Couples who complete EFT are far less likely to split up than those who do not receive EFT.

     Here are some of the methods that I use:

          Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - The most common style of counseling these days, and effective in most cases.  

          Strength-Based Therapy - Discovering and playing off your specific strengths.  This is part of every person's therapy.

          Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) - A short form of therapy for specific situations.  A good way to make quick changes and see progress.

          Narrative Therapy - Tell your story in different ways to reduce stress and to find new meaning.  This can be done individually or in small groups.

         Motivational Interviewing - A way to work through big decisions and challenges.  We find out what you really want, and help you pursue it.

         NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP) - Used to lift your mood, reduce anxiety, and prepare for specific tasks, such as public speaking, giving presentations, closing sales, or stepping into stressful situations.  You can use this to be at your best in those moments.

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         In addition to these evidence-based methods I also offer  Transformational Prayer.  This is a faith-based, Christian technique that is extraordinarily effective in resolving strong emotional reactions, such as anxiety, fear, anger, and sadness.  I have had atheists and people of many different religions ask for this kind of help, and they have come back for more.  So, you don't have to be a Christian, or to become one, to get a benefit from this method.

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         For Christians, these 'secular' methods work because they are based upon God's design of the human soul.  Medical science is based upon God's design of the body, and good counseling techniques are based upon the way God designed the human soul.  When a method reliably helps people, then we have learned something about God's design.  When it doesn't help, then it can't be based  upon God's design.  That is how medical science and psychology both work.   Scripture will support that which works, and contradict that which doesn't, so scripture and prayer are important aides in good counseling.  

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        For those who subscribe to other faiths, other spiritual orientations, and for atheists and agnostics - you and your system of belief, or non-belief, will be respected.  I believe you will feel comfortable and supported in this practice regardless of your views.  

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